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In response to the trending videos online of individuals abusing explosive compounds such as Tannerite used for shooting targets, the Senate approved a safety measure sponsored by State Sen. John Curran (R-Downers Grove) that requires a FOID Card for the purchase or possession of explosive compounds.

“The use of Tannerite has evolved from a helpful component using for shooting practice to an unexpected explosive pastime on YouTube,” said Curran. “Senate Bill 2561 is a commonsense safety measure. Tannerite should be handled as firearms and ammunition are under the FOID card system. Explosive compounds have great potential for being abused and used unsafely—as we’ve been seeing more online and in the news. We want to help ensure only law-abiding gun owners have access to it.”

Tannerite is the brand name of a binary explosive compound that is placed on targets and explodes when hit by ammunition—and its recreational use and mishandling is building popularity on YouTube and in other online videos involving exploding appliances, buildings, cars and other structures. In many unfortunate instances, the user or others in the surrounding area have been harmed or killed in the incident, or done additional damage to their property or adjacent property.

If enacted, Senate Bill 2561 would require that all individuals possess a FOID card in order to buy, sell or possess "pre-packaged explosive components." Violation of the measure would result in a Class 4 Felony.

Powerful explosives such as Ammonium Nitrate Fuel Oil (ANFO) which was used to destroy the Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City in 1995, is now regulated by federal and/or state laws. Meanwhile, Tannerite, a very similar compound, is highly accessible and available for purchase by non-FOID card holders under current law.

The State Senate approved the legislation on March 13, and it will now move to the House of Representatives for full consideration.